The Atlanta Falcons run game is looking almost as bad as their pass game these days. The team was convinced they had a very loaded and lethal backfield at the start of the season, but injuries and inconsistencies has plagued the unit. That appears to be the storyline of the Falcons' season. Despite the slow start and injuries, Steven Jackson is urging fans not to panic.
Jackson finally returned to the lineup after getting injured in the second game of the season. Against the Arizona Cardinals he was not a factor during the game, putting up just six yards off 11 carries. The veteran was certainly disappointed over not making the most of his opportunities. However, he is positive that with more carries and more chances he will improve.
"At this point, my ability has been proven over time," Jackson said, via Atlanta Journal Constitution. "I just need to get out there and get in the flow of the game and work on my chemistry with my offensive line. It's not necessary for me to feel like I need to panic. I just need to be who I am. It's not frustrating. I'm just disappointed that we didn't win (against Arizona). The work that needs to be put in during the week is being done. Now, we have to carry it over to Sunday."
If Jackson is going to improve, the matchup against the Carolina Panthers might not be the game to do it. The Panthers are only giving up 79.3 yards per game and their defense could causing headaches for the Falcons once again. Atlanta succeeds when they stick to a balanced offense, but the moment the team gets behind, they abandon the run and fail to score. Jackson understands that he must step up and change that.
"I just wanted to make the best of the opportunities given to me last week," said Jackson. "I didn't get a chance to do so, but I have another week to make an argument for (more carries). I'll continue to just work hard and show that despite what it may look like, my confidence is not shaken."
Things get worse for the Falcons. There is a chance that Jason Snelling will not be active for the matchup, leaving Jackson and Jacquizz Rodgers as the premier backs. Snelling suffered a concussion and was just cleared to begin practicing again. The chance that he is very productive is slim. Rodgers is likely the best fantasy option.
"The thing about this team and this organization is that they've had so much success in the past that at any moment, they can get ball rolling," Jackson said. "Get that one or two game winning streak and catch fire. We have people on our team like Osi (Umenyiora), who has been a part of those situations. We just have to get the confidence. We just have to get the wins under our belt."